P18B casino project to affect 50 trees

CEBU, Philippines — The P18-billion integrated resort and casino project on the nine-hectare Kawit Island at the South Road Properties would displace 50 trees, said the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DERN)-7.

The trees include seven acacia, one duha, one mabolo, two mahogany, two mango, 24 narra, five neem, and eight talisay, said DENR-7 Community Environment and Natural Resources Office Officer Raul Pasoc.

“There are 50 trees planted within alienable and disposable land owned by the City Government of Cebu covered with Transfer Certificate Title No. PT-15961 that will be affected by the proposed Cebu Integrated Resort Project of Universal Hotel and Resorts Incorporated (UHRI) as shown on the attached geo-tagged photos,” he said.

UHRI asked the permission of the Cebu City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) for the earth-balling of 15 trees to pave way for the development of the big-ticket project.

But based on DENR’s actual inspection, 50 trees would be affected by the project.

Pasoc, in a letter dated April 15, said UHRI needs to comply with the requirements set by law prior to the issuance of a permit.

The requirements are letter request from the proponent; resolution from the Cebu City Council interposing no objection to the removal of trees; project plan showing the structure to be built and the location of the trees affected; Environmental Compliance Certificate; and Earth-balling and transplanting plan with corresponding maps.

CENRO Head Nida Cabrera said her office has already issued a document of “no objection,” which the council is set to deliberate on.

Cabrera said her office will assist the UHRI in the removal or balling out of trees to ensure their survival.

“Wala ra tay objections. Naa ray technology ana and daghan na ta’g na earth-ball sa CENRO nga buhi ra gyud like dinha sa Mahiga Park,” she said.

She said the earth-balled trees are planned to be transferred to a private property in Lapu-Lapu City.

UHRI plans to construct three hotels, integrated resort facility, a commercial or shopping center, convention center, performing arts theater, themed park and iconic public art, parking lot, and casino on Kawit Island. (FREEMAN)